Commonly Asked Questions
What is Dementia vs. Alzheimer's Disease?
Dementia is the overall term that describes a group of symptoms such as memory loss, difficulties with language, problem solving and other cognitive functions. Dementia is caused by abnormal changes in the brain due to various diseases and damage to brain cells. Alzheimer’s disease is one type of dementia and itʻs the most common. There are many different types of dementia.
I’m worried about my memory. What can I do?
You’ve already taken the first step to learn more by visiting this website. Way to go! Here’s a list of signs and symptoms. If these sound similar to your current experience, speak with your healthcare provider about your cognition. A healthcare provider can do a cognitive screening and further evaluation if appropriate. There may be other treatable medical conditions that can cause dementia-like symptoms. Either way, there’s hope, support, and care for you on your journey.
What can I do to reduce my risk for dementia?
Nearly half of dementia cases could be reduced by addressing modifiable risk factors. Research is continually advancing and there are many potential risk factors being studied around the world. Click here to learn more about brain health and the top 14 modifiable dementia risk factors.
Here are AARP’s Six pillars of brain health to simplify next steps and help us form brain healthy habits:
I care for someone with memory loss.
You are not alone. Everyone has either been a caregiver, is currently a caregiver, will be a caregiver, or will need a caregiver.
Learn MoreInformation and Resources
Commonly Asked Questions
Begin your journey by finding answers to the most commonly asked questions about dementia.
Brain Health
This page provides an overview of ways to improve your brain health, dementia risk factors, and provides tips and resources.
About Us
Hawai‘i Dementia Initiative is a coalition of people across Hawai‘i who are passionate about all things dementia.
Support Groups & Upcoming Events
Vision Loss and Dementia
One increasing but sometimes overlooked risk factor for dementia and cognitive decline is vision impairment. Untreated vision loss can accelerate brain aging, lower cognitive reserve, and contribute to social isolation, […]
The Empowered Caregiver - Communicating Effectively: Grief, Coping, and the Holiday Season
As people living with dementia progress in their journey and lose the ability to use words, caregivers can discover new ways to communicate effectively in any stage of the disease. […]
Cultivating Care: Memory Café - Cultivation
The Cultivating Care: Memory Café is a monthly garden-based program for people living with memory loss and their care partners. Held at Ho‘ōla ʻĀina Pilipili Accessible Garden site, each gathering offers a welcoming […]
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